The Vision Pro has officially marked its second year since launch. Selected as DMN’s 2024 Product of the Year, there are still numerous challenges it faces as it enters this new phase. Below are three anticipated upgrades that could drive a successful year for Vision Pro.
Apple Intelligence (especially for Siri)
The lack of AI integration in Apple’s leading-edge spatial computer for 2024 was a letdown, although it is understandable. The company has been focused on catching up in the AI space and thus has prioritized its most popular devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
However, Apple Intelligence is set to arrive on Vision Pro, likely in visionOS 3, and there’s a significant opportunity for improvement in one main area: an enhanced Siri.
While visionOS will benefit from many AI enhancements, a more robust Siri is at the top of my wish list.
As a fairly new Vision Pro user, I’ve quickly discovered that Siri plays a crucial role in spatial computing, surpassing its importance on any other Apple platform (except for the HomePod).
Voice-first interactions can greatly enhance the Vision Pro experience, and with Siri’s ChatGPT integration, alongside substantial upgrades expected in iOS 18.4, this could profoundly change the visionOS landscape.
Strong gaming support
For years, Apple has aimed to prove its commitment to gaming. While the iPhone has always been a gaming favorite, Apple has also encouraged users (and developers) to engage with gaming on platforms like Mac and Apple TV.
However, the Vision Pro’s launch surprisingly lacked a strong gaming narrative. Apple Arcade boasts various spatial games alongside offerings available in the App Store, but there are presently no supported VR controllers, and Apple hasn’t established visionOS as a gaming ecosystem.
Fortunately, it seems that PlayStation VR2 controllers may soon receive support. Additionally, a recent survey among game developers suggests that more Vision Pro games are on the horizon than have been disclosed thus far.
For Apple, it’s crucial to establish gaming as a priority for Vision Pro in its second year; otherwise, the best VR experiences will remain exclusive to rival platforms.
Expanded Apple Immersive Video
Immersive Video stands out as one of the Vision Pro’s most powerful features. The only drawback so far has been that consumer demand for content has significantly surpassed availability.
As last year concluded, Apple ramped up the frequency of Immersive Video releases, and this momentum is expected to continue as new content development progresses.
The diverse range of Immersive Video content released thus far illustrates Apple’s commitment to exploring this innovative medium and highlights its potential for future expansion.
While I envision the Vision Pro transforming into a robust productivity platform, that still remains uncertain. Undoubtedly, however, Immersive Video has the potential to make it an exceptional entertainment device.
Vision Pro Year Two: Upgrade Summary
If Apple can deliver on all three of these critical areas, the Vision Pro should appeal to a broader audience. Factors like pricing, weight, and the app ecosystem also carry weight. However, enhancing visionOS into a comprehensive computing platform with strong gaming and video capabilities will undoubtedly brighten the Vision Pro’s future.
What upgrades would you like to see for the Vision Pro this year? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Top Vision Pro Accessories
: . More.
